This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.

Anzhi star Willian has confirmed his interest in joining Liverpool this summer as the Reds mull over a £30million bid.

Willian, 25, is one of a number of big name players who have been put up for sale by Anzhi, with the club desperate to shed their giant wage bill.

And despite interest from Chelsea and Spurs, Liverpool and believed to be leading the race for the player, and he admits he'd be interested in moving to Anfield.

"There are conversations, and I am hoping in the next few days for an offer from a club like Liverpool," said Willian.

"If it is Liverpool, then they are a great club. The news came as a real shock, but I'm calm about it and hoping for the best, because I've been told they will help the players to go, if they get a good offer.

"I am hoping there will be something from Liverpool, because England has a league that I've dreamed of playing in."

Liverpool are expected to open the bidding for Willian this week at around £30million, with Brendan Rodgers keen to land at least one marquee signing this summer.

The winger, who is desperate to move in order to boost his chances of playing for Brazil at the World Cup, is thought to earn around £120,000-a-week at Anzhi, but he would be willing to take a pay cut to make the transfer happen.

Liverpool are also believed to be close to signing Granada full-back Guilherme Siqueira, after agreeing a £5million deal this week.